CORNWALL, Ontario – UFCW Canada Local 1006A representing about 150 employees at Baxtrom’s Your Independent Grocer in Cornwall walked off the job on Friday, Nov. 23 after refusing to accept a final offer from their emplyer.
The striking employees are seeking a new contract and a living wage increase.
Store owner and operator John Baxtrom said that he was committed to fairness for his employees and was saddened that a strike could not be avoided, but assured the public that his store would continue to meet their shopping needs.
“I am disappointed we have not been able to reach a negotiated settlement,” Baxtrom said in a statement to Seaway News. “I am committed to fairness for my employees, who are an important part of my family-run business. I have provided the Union with my final offer which I believe balances the needs of my employees and the realities of my business. For my customers, I want to assure you that I have plans in place to ensure that I can continue to meet your grocery needs during the strike.”
During the strike, tickets for the United Way Celebration Sleigh, which is hosted at Baxtrom’s will only be available at the United Way office and the Bank of Montreal in Cornwall.
Your Independent Grocer is a subsidiary of Loblaws.
